Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan / Coupe
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Infiniti G37 (Q40).
Brand Philosophy:
Emphasizes luxury, advanced engineering, safety, and performance.
Model Highlights:
Stylish design, comfortable interior, premium materials, advanced technology for its era, the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system enhancing traction.
Primary Coverage:
Vehicle operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting for the 2010 Mercedes-Benz C250 4MATIC.
Specific Topics:
Instrument cluster, infotainment, climate controls, lighting, driver controls, locks and security, seating and restraints, driving, customer assistance, cleaning, maintenance, engine compartment, engine oil, battery, fuel, air filter, part numbers, refill capacities, lubricant specifications, accessories.
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for this model/year).
Type:
Owner's Manual / User Guide
Powertrain:
Engine operation, lubrication, cooling, fuel system basics, battery maintenance.
Chassis:
Brake system warning lights, tire pressure monitoring system (if applicable), steering wheel controls.
Electrical And Electronics:
Instrument cluster indicators, lighting operation, infotainment system usage, climate control system operation, power windows, locks, and mirrors.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system explanation, seat belt usage, child restraint system installation, passive safety features.
Basic Maintenance:
Checking and topping up engine oil, windshield washer fluid, checking tire pressure, basic cleaning procedures.
Vehicle Operation:
Starting and stopping the engine, gear selection (likely automatic transmission), parking brake operation, using cruise control.
Troubleshooting:
Understanding dashboard warning lights and messages, basic troubleshooting for common operational issues.
Depth:
Focuses on user-level understanding and operation; does not cover in-depth mechanical repair or diagnostic procedures typically found in a service manual.
Compatibility:
Compatible with any device supporting PDF readers (Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit Reader, etc.).
Resolution:
High-resolution digital scan, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital PDF)
Paper:
Not Applicable (Digital PDF)
Engine Code:
M271.860 (or similar variant of the 1.8L I4 CGI Turbo)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, turbocharged with intercooler (CGI - Charged Gasoline Injection)
Displacement:
1796 cc (1.8 Liters)
Horsepower:
Approximately 204 hp (152 kW) at 5500 rpm
Torque:
Approximately 221 lb-ft (300 Nm) from 2000-4200 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Direct Injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Length:
Approximately 181.6 inches (4612 mm)
Width:
Approximately 70.7 inches (1796 mm) without mirrors
Height:
Approximately 56.3 inches (1431 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 108.7 inches (2760 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3570 - 3670 lbs (1620 - 1665 kg) depending on options.
Trunk Capacity:
Approximately 15.1 cubic feet (428 liters).
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
5 Stars (for the W204 generation overall, specific to 2010 may vary slightly by test)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Likely a Top Safety Pick for its model year, common for Mercedes-Benz in this era.
Stability Control:
Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Crosswind Assist (on some models/years)
Braking Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BAS)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) integrated with ESP.
Airbags:
Front, front-side, and window airbags; front-seat active head restraints.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with belt tensioners and force limiters.
System Name:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation)
Features:
AM/FM radio, CD player, auxiliary input, Bluetooth connectivity (phone only, no streaming typically), optional navigation system, color display.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, often with speed limiter function.
Parking Assistance:
Optional Parktronic parking assist system (audible and visual aids).
Bluetooth:
Standard for hands-free calling, audio streaming availability may vary by specific option package.
System Type:
Dual-zone automatic climate control (THERMATIC) or optional THERMATIC/THERMATIC system.
Headlights:
Halogen projector headlights, with optional Bi-Xenon headlights and LED daytime running lights.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil. The car's 'Service A' or 'Service B' indicator will prompt the driver.
Transmission Fluid Interval:
Mercedes-Benz often lists transmission fluid changes as 'lifetime' or at very high mileage (e.g., 60,000-100,000 miles) under normal conditions, but it's often recommended earlier (around 40,000-60,000 miles) for longevity, especially for the 7G-TRONIC. Consult the manual for specific guidance.
Other Intervals:
Brake fluid flush (every 2 years), coolant replacement (at specified intervals), spark plugs (around 60,000-100,000 miles), cabin air filter (annually or as needed).
Engine Oil:
MB 229.5 or MB 229.51 (SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic is common)
Transmission Fluid:
MB 236.14 (for 7G-TRONIC PLUS)
Coolant:
MB 325.0 or MB 326.0 (Propylene Glycol based, blue color)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Plus (or MB 331.0)
Common Problems Pre Facelift W204:
Early models can experience issues with the HVAC blower motor resistor, potentially faulty camshaft adjusters, and sometimes oil leaks from the valve cover gasket or oil filter housing. The 7G-TRONIC transmission can occasionally exhibit rough shifting if fluid/filter is neglected. Turbocharger wastegate control can also be a concern on high-mileage units.
Oil Filter:
Examples: Mann-Filter HU 711/5 z, Mahle KL 145 (consult specific VIN for exact fitment).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 5.5 - 6.0 liters (5.8 - 6.3 US quarts) with filter change.
Manufacturer History:
Mercedes-Benz, a German automotive manufacturer with a long history of innovation and luxury vehicle production since the early 20th century.
W204 Introduction:
The W204 generation was introduced in 2007, with the facelift (post-2010) bringing updated styling and technology. The 2010 model year represents the pre-facelift W204.
C250 Positioning:
The C250 badge often signified a more powerful or refined variant within the C-Class range, typically featuring a turbocharged engine.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary production often took place in Germany (Sindelfingen, Bremen) and South Africa.
Model Year Awards:
The W204 C-Class generally received positive reviews and accolades for its blend of luxury, performance, and safety, often cited in 'best of' lists for its segment.
Consumer Reports Rating:
Consumer Reports ratings for the 2010 W204 typically showed average to above-average predicted reliability, with strong marks for performance and comfort.
